Products
Xylose isomerase is commercially available as a medical device in the form of capsules (CH: Fructease, other countries also Fructosin, Fructaid).
Structure and properties
Xylose isomerase is an enzyme that catalyzes the reversible isomerization of fructose into glucose. It has been used industrially since the 1950s and is derived from non-pathogenic bacterial strains. D-xylose ⇌ D-xylulose + fructose ⇌ glucose
Effects
Xylose isomerase converts fructose (fruit sugar) in the small intestine to glucose (grape sugar), which is absorbed by the body. Due to rapid absorption, glucose is hardly isomerized back into fructose and the reaction equilibrium is shifted in the direction of glucose. Because less fructose enters the colon as a result, the symptoms of fructose malabsorption are alleviated.
Indications for use
For the prevention and relief of symptoms caused by fructose malabsorption. These include abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea.
Dosage
According to the directions for use. The exact use depends on the product. The capsules are taken before meals.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Inherited (hereditary) fructose intolerance
Full precautions can be found in the leaflet.
Adverse effects
The agents are generally well tolerated. Xylose isomerase has received GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status from the FDA.
